One of Accessible Accommodation's guests, Karen Gillies shares about her stay in September 2023 at one of our exclusive properties, Brisbane Bayside on Coochiemudlo Island.Our stay at Brisbane Bayside on Coochiemudlo Island was an experience worth sharing. My recent visit with my carer Nettie left us truly impressed with the impeccable accessibility and overall comfort that this accommodation offered.In this blog, I'll recount our delightful stay at Brisbane Bayside, highlighting its outstanding accessibility features and the warm community we encountered on our trip. Accessible Pet-Friendly StayFrom the moment we arrived at Brisbane Bayside, it was evident that accessibility was a top priority. The property excelled in making everyone feel welcome, regardless of their mobility needs. The wide hallways were just the beginning; the entire space was designed with accessibility in mind. This thoughtful approach extended to the kitchen, where I could easily access the kettle, sink and microwave – a detail that had been lacking in previous places I have stayed in.One standout feature was the presence of a shower commode onsite, a convenience that made our trip much smoother. Usually, we had to bring our own but Brisbane Bayside had thought of everything. Brisbane Bayside's dog-friendly policy was a game-changer for us and our beloved furry companion, Sasha. The accommodation made it easy for her to be a part of our trip, ensuring her comfort and happiness throughout our stay. The island's welcoming attitude towards dogs was a breath of fresh air.

Picture this…..Accessible Accommodation set in the Southern Highlands. Hollyhall Farm offers full accessibility, from the moment you enter this brand new cottage, tastefully decorated in a bright and cheery horse theme.Free-flowing open plan living, this pet-friendly accommodation offers guests the use of a patient lifter hoist, electric bed, an indoor heated swimming pool with a pool hoist, accessible tennis court, Equine Therapy and much, much more!Owned by Johnny (who is a wheelchair user) and his wife Jan, Hollyhall caters from low to the HIGHEST DISABILITY needs. Pool and ponies, horses and nature This three-bedroom cottage shares its site with a busy equestrian facility that sees riders and pupils coming and going every day. Surrounded by lush farmland, placid horses and miniature ponies greet you. Watch the riders train during the day, stroll along with the concrete and gravel path, then enjoy the solitude, and the glorious Highlands night. A place for respite, holidays and short term accessible accommodation. You'll get to meet Ted, a spoilt rotten miniature pony who keeps the horses in line and the guests entertained. He loves cuddles and will sell his soul for carrots. Ted and Johnny (the owner pictured below) will show you around the cottage and the farm. Some paths are gravel, others are cement, giving you the opportunity to explore this working Farmstay. As Johnny is a wheelchair user himself, the horses are accustomed to wheelchairs and will be very friendly and interactive, allowing guests to take part in horse therapy if they choose at an additional cost.

Travelling is a wonderful way to explore new places, relax and create lasting memories. Especially if the swimming pool is accessible!For individuals with mobility challenges, finding properties that offer accessible amenities like pools with roll-in entry, grab rails or pool hoists can make a world of difference to their travel experiences. In this blog, discover properties that prioritise inclusivity by providing accessible pool facilities.HERE IS A LINK TO ALL THE ACCOMMODATION WITH ACCESSIBLE POOLSEnhanced Accessibility / Inclusive Holiday ExperienceTraditional pool access, which usually involves stairs or ladders, can be extremely challenging when your mobility is limited. And. there's nothing more disheartening than being a spectator having to sit by the side of the pool watching family and friends splash about. After all, everyone deserves to have fun!An accessible pool ensures that everyone can participate and enjoy the pool together. This inclusivity fosters a sense of togetherness and equality among all guests. Accessible pools are a crucial addition to any property’s swimming facility. In fact, hotels with an accessible pool receive 15 times more bookings than those without!Accessible swimming pools provide a gentle decline into the water, grab rails or a pool hoist, making it easier for people with disabilities to enter and exit the pool safely.

Riverside Holiday Resort, Urunga – Truly Accessible North Coast ParadiseMy family and I had been eagerly looking forward to our stay at Riverside Holiday Resort, Urunga  North Coast, NSW.The prospect of a week-long getaway to a beautiful accessible resort in December was an enticing one. As we arrived, the balmy December weather greeted us with open arms, setting the perfect tone for a memorable holiday.We strategically planned our trip outside of school holidays to avoid the crowds, as we were all adults. However, we couldn't help but notice the park, trampolines and vast green spaces that would undoubtedly make this place a haven for families with children. A Warm Welcome and Helpful StaffOur experience began on a warm and welcoming note when we encountered the friendly and relaxed office staff. They directed us towards our truly impressive apartment, which exceeded our expectations. The spacious and attractive interior boasted all the modern conveniences we could ask for, including complimentary internet access. Conveniently, our apartment was also located right next to the pool.One of our foremost concerns was ensuring that our son, a power wheelchair user, would have a comfortable and accessible stay. Our worries quickly evaporated as we assessed the ample turning space within the apartment and the bathroom. We were delighted that what was described on the Accessible Accommodation website listing was consistent with what we saw on arrival.

Hollyhall Farm – An Accessible ParadiseDuring our recent stay at Hollyhall Farm in the Southern Highlands, we had an incredible experience that I cannot recommend enough. As a family with a daughter (Grace), who relies on a wheelchair due to a rare genetic movement disorder, finding suitable accommodation can be challenging. However, Jan and John, the hosts of Hollyhall Farm, went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction throughout our stay. Hollyhall Farm really was An Accessible Paradise. A Warm Welcome at An Accessible ParadiseFrom the moment we arrived, Jan and John greeted us warmly and made sure we had everything we needed. They even provided us with a commode to facilitate Grace's needs. It was evident that they truly understood the unique challenges faced by families living with disabilities. Each night, they would check in on us and ensure we had enough wood for the fire, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, they organized a special bonfire experience for our boys, showing their kindness and generosity. A Truly Accessible CottageThe accessibility of the cottage was remarkable. It was designed to be fully wheelchair accessible and even had a hoist available. This attention to detail and consideration for individuals with disabilities made our stay incredibly smooth and stress-free.The cottage itself was well-equipped with essential pantry items and even had a coffee machine for those much-needed morning pick-me-ups. The cleanliness and warmth of the cottage was exceptional, and the beds provided a comfortable and restful night's sleep. Meeting The Locals at Hollyhall FarmOne of the highlights of our stay was the opportunity for Grace to go horse riding. The horses at Hollyhall Farm were remarkable, displaying gentleness and understanding. With the help of her father and brother, Grace was able to enjoy horse riding several times during our stay. Jan, in particular, was determined to make equestrian experiences accessible to people with disabilities, and her dedication truly shone through.

Family & Pet-Friendly Accessible Accommodation.Adam Smark, our team member here at Accessible Accommodation, checked out one of our top five accessible places to stay in New South Wales.A recent amputee, Adam understands the challenges in adjusting to a life where accessibility is crucial for his mobility. When Adam uses his prosthetic, he has more flexibility on where to stay. However, we asked Adam to critique Hollyhall Hollyhall as a part-time wheelchair user. This is his story: The Setting:Hollyhall is a working farm and Equestrian Training Centre set in The Southern Highlands, between Sydney and Melbourne. My partner Tracy loves horses, so when I told her we were going to stay at Hollyhall, she jumped at the chance. As we entered the automatic gates and drove down the gravel road, the last remaining autumn leaves, a nip in the air and lush green grass greeted us. Jan and John, the owners ensured the wood fire was burning for our arrival into this cosy cottage.

When you think about a truly accessible holiday stay, what comes to mind? Step-free access, wider doorways, and an accessible bathroom? That’s a great start — but what about a pool hoist or an aquatic wheelchair so everyone can enjoy a swim, or a ceiling hoist and changing facility in the change rooms to make transfers easier and safer? That’s where our wonderful partner, Para Mobility, comes in. Who Is Para Mobility?Para Mobility is an Australian company that designs and manufactures assistive equipment for people with disability. From their factory right here in Australia, they create products that help make everyday life, work, and travel more accessible.For Accessible Accommodation guests and property owners, this can mean things like:

Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family, caravan parks offer some of the best value-for-money accommodation in Australia.Here’s why a stay at a caravan park might be your next perfect holiday.1. Great Value for MoneyCaravan parks typically offer a range of affordable accommodation options—from powered sites and cabins to luxury villas—without the high price tag of hotels. Plus, many parks include access to a variety of facilities and entertainment at no extra cost, stretching your holiday dollar even further.2. Accessibility OptionsMore and more caravan parks are upgrading their facilities to support travellers with accessibility needs, including step-free cabins, accessible bathrooms, wide paths and some with accessible pools with hoists. This makes it easier for everyone to enjoy a break, because everyone deserves a holiday.3. Perfect for Families, Groups & Multi-Generational TravelWith accommodation options to suit all needs, caravan parks are ideal for family reunions, groups of friends, or travellers of different ages. Kids can run free in a safe, contained environment while adults relax and unwind.

Exploring Inclusive Excellence at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday ResortSet against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsundays, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is a leader in inclusive hospitality, transforming the idea of a traditional holiday park into something truly exceptional. This award-winning, family-friendly resort has set a new standard by prioritizing accessibility, ensuring every guest can enjoy a memorable stay regardless of their needs. Today I am sharing the stand-out features that truly set this resort apart.Accessibility Guide: Ensuring Inclusive ExperiencesAt the heart of BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort's commitment to inclusivity lies its comprehensive Accessibility Guide. This guide provides invaluable support for travellers with diverse needs, offering comprehensive details on the resort's accessibility features. From accommodation options to on-site activities and regional experiences, the guide covers it all. Guests can explore detailed written as well as audio descriptions and photos of accessible facilities, ensuring they can plan their stay with confidence and peace of mind. Click HERE for the guide. Accessible Accommodation Options: Where Comfort Meets Accessible FunctionalityBIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort features five thoughtfully designed accessible cabins, each designed to provide comfort and convenience. Among them are three Accessible Deluxe Studios and two spacious Accessible 2-bedroom Premium Cottage Deluxe cabins. These accommodations feature ramp entrances, extra-large layouts for easy wheelchair manoeuvrability, underbed clearance to accommodate a hoist, and accessible bathrooms equipped with essential amenities like grab rails and shower seats.The self-contained cabins are not only functional but also fresh, bright, and styled with contemporary décor. They are completed with a deck area surrounded by a lush tropical garden to chill out.